Written by Jake Keiter and featured in our July 2023 Print edition!
In an exhilarating turn of events for our local community, Lateesha Mohl, a talented kickboxer, recently made her highly anticipated debut in New York, emerging victorious in her first kickboxing match with a TKO win in the second round. Mohl’s triumph not only showcases her exceptional skills but also serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes in our community.
Mohl’s journey as a kickboxer began in April 2016 when she had her first amateur fight. Reflecting on her journey, Mohl shared, “After my first fight in 2016, I absolutely fell in love with the sport.” Since then, she has accumulated a total of 18 fights, including MMA, kickboxing, and boxing matches. The decision to pursue kickboxing as her primary discipline was driven by Mohl’s natural affinity for the sport. She expressed her love for kickboxing, saying, “It’s hard to explain the feeling I get when I’m training or competing in kickboxing, but it’s an absolute rush.”
Preparation for Mohl’s debut fight was a grueling seven-week process. She underwent an intensive “fight camp” that included training twice a day, engaging in activities such as running, swimming, and strength training. At her gym, she honed her striking combinations and participated in sparring sessions to simulate real fights in a safer environment. Additionally, Mohl emphasized the importance of mental training, working with a sports psychologist, Ann Zaprazny of Great Sports Minds LLC, to prepare herself mentally for the match. She was provided with tools and daily routines to optimize her mental preparation and perform at her highest potential.
As the much-anticipated debut fight approached, Mohl remained calm, focused, and ready to compete. Stepping into the ring, she entered a heightened state of concentration, attentively listening to her coaches’ instructions. Mohl’s acute awareness allowed her to identify her opponent’s vulnerability and take advantage of the situation, ultimately securing the victory with a TKO in the second round.
For Mohl, every fight presents physical, mental, and emotional challenges. However, she emphasized that the enjoyment she derives from the sport played a significant role in her performance. Mohl stated, “I had so much fun in this fight, and I feel that played a huge role in my performance.”
The referee’s intervention to stop the fight brought forth an overwhelming surge of joy, happiness, and gratitude for Mohl. The hard work she had put in during her training camp and her unwavering dedication had paid off. Mohl expressed her excitement, stating, “I worked so hard for this moment, and I could not be more excited for myself and my team.”
Looking ahead, Mohl hopes that this victory will open up more opportunities for her in the professional kickboxing arena. Despite the challenges she has faced in securing matches as a professional, she remains optimistic about her future. Mohl aims to have at least one more fight this year and is eagerly looking forward to an action-packed schedule in the coming year.
Lateesha Mohl’s victorious debut marks the beginning of a promising career in kickboxing. Her journey from intensive training to a triumphant performance serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment and determination. Mohl’s success not only inspires her fellow local residents but also leaves an indelible mark on the kickboxing world. As she continues to showcase her exceptional skills, fans eagerly await her future fights and the remarkable performances that lie ahead.
